Guru's offseason Rumor Mill...

[Baseball Guru]

Its that special time again as we are getting well into the playoffs and the rumors are already flying high on the FA class this season...

In the upcoming weeks I will post some rumors going around from team to team...

[Baseball Guru]

Team by Team
Boston Red Sox Updated:10/12/2005
Manny Ramirez with the Yankees? According to the Bergen Record, Ramirez has brought up the subject with friends recently, raising an intriguing possibility in light of Alex Rodriguez's collapse in the ALDS.


Florida Marlins Updated:10/12/2005
The New York Post says the Marlins are poised to offer Yankees bench coach Joe Girardi their managerial job.


New York Yankees Updated:10/12/2005
The Yankees need to address their center field situation before next season and the New York Daily News is speculating about their options. Among them are trading for the Mets' Mike Cameron or Minnesota's Torii Hunter or dipping into the free agent pool which could have Boston's Johnny Damon, San Diego Brian Giles or Minnesota's Jacque Jones.


Philadelphia Phillies Updated:10/12/2005
According to the Buck County Courier Times, former Astros GM Gerry Hunsicker is now the favorite for the same job with the Phillies.


San Diego Padres Updated:10/12/2005
According to the San Diego Union Tribune, the Padres do not expect catcher Ramon Hernandez, who will be a free agent, to return next season.


Seattle Mariners Updated:10/12/2005
The Seattle Times says Jim Beattie, dismissed by the Baltimore Orioles, could return to Seattle if Dan Evans is hired to be general manager in Arizona or Tampa Bay. Evans, formerly GM of the Dodgers, is a scout for Seattle GM Bill Bavasi.

[Baseball Guru]

Look for Burnett to sign a four year deal worth $48MM.

Possible destinations, ranked in order of likelihood:

Nationals: Coming under new ownership, Washington will bump up spending and try to find an ace with which they can pair John Patterson. Burnett would give them a formidable rotation, and the team is very much in consideration by Burnett.

Orioles: Baltimore stayed out of the free agent game last winter after flirting with Pavano. Burnett would fit in nicely with budding stars Daniel Cabrera and Erik Bedard and solid innings eater Bruce Chen. Baltimore would also suit the desire of Burnett's family.

Blue Jays: Can Toronto outspend their division rivals and lure Burnett north? Signing him wouldn't be unlike the Roger Clemens deal struck ten years ago.

Yankees: New York is always involved on the big-name free agents, and their rotation needs an injection of youth. Javier Vazquez and Jeff Weaver succumbed to the pressure cooker, and the Yanks have a lot of money committed to last year's free agent blunders. I think they'll stay away in the end.

Red Sox: Boston might show some interest, especially if Curt Schilling doesn't solidify himself as a healthy ace this October. But this team has five starting pitchers they've already committed to, so expect them to address other needs with their spending money.

Mariners: Seattle would love to bring Burnett in to give some depth to the rotation behind Felix Hernandez. This team probably isn't ready to contend in 2006 unless they add Burnett and another starter.

Tigers: Detroit has thrown around large sums of cash in winters past despite little chance of contending. A youth movement would be logical, but after the Magglio Ordonez contract anything seems possible.

Cubs: Bleed Cubbie Blue, an excellent Cubs blog, reports that Cubs GM Jim Hendry will be considering Burnett this winter:

"...what I heard is that he's interested in the Cubs because he and Ryan Dempster are very close friends from their Marlins days."

***********************************

Source:
http://www.rotoauthority.com/2005/09/mlb_free_agents_3.html

[Baseball Guru]

Here are the suitors, in order of likelihood.

Red Sox: Theo Epstein has stated that he wants Damon back. But as Gordon Edes of the Boston Globe states, "Roster flexibility is a principal tenet of the Epstein way." Jason Varitek pushed Epstein to the limit with four years, and Damon wants six. The Sox let Pedro Martinez walk, and we expect the same to happen with Damon.

Angels: Damon has stated publicly that Los Angeles is #2 on his list:

"Anaheim's right behind Boston as far as teams on the list," Damon said. "I love Southern California. The weather is awesome, I like the team, I love (Manager) Mike Scioscia, I love their pitching staff, I love Orlando Cabrera. A lot of things about it make sense."

Nothing like campaigning for a new team before the season even ends. With the colossal flop of Steve Finley and the Los Angeles club near the bottom in the AL in batting average and on-base percentage, Damon would be a welcome addition. Angels GM Bill Stoneman wasn't shy about signing the best player on the market in Vladimir Guerrero, so L.A. seems like a good possibility.

Yankees: As we've learned from Baseball Musings, even Regis has been working on getting Damon to the Bronx. The Yanks usually come away with one big prize each offseason, and they won't be shy to hand out six years as a dealbreaker.

Cubs: GM Jim Hendry has no problem dealing with Scott Boras. And Sammy Sosa's contract will finally be off the books in 2006. But with that and the Kerry Wood contract not looking pretty in their late stages, Hendry will probably be cautious with Damon. He flashed some interest in Carlos Beltran and J.D. Drew this winter, but wisely passed in the end. Expect Corey Patterson to get one more go in center for the 2006 Cubs. Otherwise, Hendry might import 2003 spark Kenny Lofton. For further reading on the subject, check out the Cubs 2006 Projected Lineup.

Tigers: Detroit is still reeling a bit from the Troy Pervical signing, and no one knows if Magglio Ordonez can't justify that contract no matter what he does. Still, the Tigers threw a four-year deal at Placido Polanco and they could use a center fielder. Don't rule it out.

In addition, the Diamondbacks, Nationals, and Orioles could be in the mix.

**********************************************

Source:
http://www.rotoauthority.com/2005/08/mlb_2006_free_a.htmlrce:

[Baseball Guru]

Here are Garciaparra's possible destinations, in order of likelihood.

Nationals: With possible new owners in Washington, the team is a good bet to bust out the checkbook this winter. Christian Guzman is a clear flop, and Garciaparra would be a nice fit.

Cubs: You may have noticed that Garciaparra is not included in my 2006 Cubs Projected Lineup. This despite Nomar and his wife purportedly building a home in an Illinois suburb. I think that Cubs GM Jim Hendry will be under a lot of pressure to get the closest player to a sure thing at shortstop, Rafael Furcal. He'll probably sign Furcal and regret passing on Garciaparra. The Cubs will end up with one of the two no matter what.

Diamondbacks: The Snakes have shown a willingness to throw cash around (see Russ Ortiz and Troy Glaus last winter). Garciaparra could put up huge numbers for Arizona in 2006 while holding down the fort for Stephen Drew.

Mariners: The M's have no viable options at short. Nomar would make for a powerful infield in Seattle. Of course, Garciaparra would not spend any time at third base in this scenario. The Mariners look to focus on a top tier starter like A.J. Burnett, but last winter showed that they are willing to make two impact signings in an attempt to win now.

Other possibilities include the Dodgers, Twins, and White Sox. Obstacles: Juan Uribe's hot streak may have saved his starting job, Joel Guzman may be ready soon in L.A., and the Twins rarely spend big bucks on free agents.

**************************************************

Source:
http://www.rotoauthority.com/2005/09/mlb_free_agents_2.html

[Durango53]

I have one in the Twins forum also.

There I have one that says the Yankees are going to get into it hot for Hunter.

I dont see it. What would the Yankees have to offer the Twins that they would part with Torii?

[Baseball Guru]

I have one in the Twins forum also.

There I have one that says the Yankees are going to get into it hot for Hunter.

I dont see it. What would the Yankees have to offer the Twins that they would part with Torii?


I saw that also... I am about to post that tidbit:)

[Baseball Guru]

Hot rumor in New York is that the Yankees are getting serious about trading for Twins center fielder Torii Hunter.
-- St. Paul Pioneer Press

The White Sox were interested in obtaining Ken Griffey during the season for his bat and now might lose their one power source, Paul Konerko, to free agency. Could Chicago start a package with defensive stud Aaron Rowand to get Gary Sheffield?
-- New York Post

One intriguing alternative to the Yankees re-signing Hideki Matsui would be to sign Johnny Damon as a left fielder/leadoff man. But his agent, Scott Boras, is going to seek at least a five-year deal for Damon. It is important that the Yanks do not go with Damon in center, where he already has lost a step and has a worse arm than Bernie Williams.
-- New York Post

Yankee bloodletting that never materialized after last October's collapse to the Red Sox might finally take place this winter. George Steinbrenner only hinted at his displeasure with the Yanks' division series ouster at the hands of the Angels in a statement released yesterday. The Boss did, however, take a subtle shot at Joe Torre by praising Angels skipper Mike Scioscia -- possibly providing the first of many salvos fired between the Yanks' manager and owner this winter. The next could come today or tomorrow, as Torre has promised to address his relationship with Steinbrenner during his annual postseason wrap-up.
-- New York Daily News

Yankees general manager Brian Cashman has the upper hand over George Steinbrenner. The Boss wants to bring Cashman back for 2006 and beyond, two people familiar with the situation said. Yet Cashman, according to multiple friends, has significant qualms about committing to the company he has worked for his entire adult life. With an opening in Philadelphia, and one to come in Washington, Cashman could bid adieu to The Boss and his kingdom.
-- Newsday

All signs point to Joe Girardi soon being named as the Marlins manager. According to industry sources, Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria has made Girardi an offer the Yankees bench coach is likely to accept.
-- New York Post

During a 15-minute conversation yesterday, Lou Piniella did not campaign to be the next manager of the Yankees. But he definitely didn't close any doors either.
-- New York Post

Mel Stottlemyre may be leaving the Bronx, but is doesn't appear as if he's going to Seattle. Stottlemyre, who said he likely wasn't coming back to the Yankees and had other options, lives near Seattle. But Mariners manager Mike Hargrove said yesterday he has no plans for Stottlemyre.
-- New York Daily News




It seems doubtful Bartolo Colon will pitch if the Angels advance to the World Series, and there's a chance he'll need some kind of surgery that could affect his 2006 season. Colon will undergo an MRI test today to determine the severity of the damage in his right shoulder, but the early returns were not very encouraging.
-- Los Angeles Times

The Angels got one piece of good pitching news Tuesday: Jarrod Washburn, scratched from Sunday's game against the Yankees because of strep throat and questionable for the championship series, has recovered quickly enough to start Game 2 tonight, eliminating the need to activate a rookie such as Joe Saunders Washburn, who went about two days without eating solid foods, appears to have lost between five and 10 pounds.
-- Los Angeles Times

Manny Ramirez wants to sit down with the front office next month for a give-and-take session about the club's future, according to a source close to Ramirez who was authorized by the player to speak for him yesterday.
-- Boston Herald

The Cardinals did away with rotation intrigue Tuesday. Jeff Suppan, who wasn't announced as part of the first round but would have started Game 4, will be part of the National League Championship Series mix against the Houston Astros. Jason Marquis will work from the bullpen.
-- St. Louis Post-Dispatch

The Dodgers have begun interviewing managerial candidates, but the selection process actually started more than a month ago when Jim Tracy gave them an ultimatum. Tracy, armed with the knowledge that he would be a strong candidate for the Pittsburgh Pirate opening, told Dodger owner Frank McCourt and General Manager Paul DePodesta during a Sept. 8 meeting that he wanted a two-year extension and a raise, giving him security through 2008. He told the Dodgers that if his demands weren't met, he would exercise a clause in his contract that allowed him to opt out within one week of the season's end, multiple sources said.
-- Los Angeles Times

The Orioles are expected to reintroduce Sam Perlozzo as manager today, removing the interim tag from his title. This comes as welcome news to a group of players who endorsed Perlozzo for the jog over the final weeks of the season.
-- Baltimore Sun

Al Leiter started his baseball career with the Yankees and he may have finished it with them, too. Leiter, who turns 40 later this month, said yesterday he is strongly considering retiring from baseball.
-- New York Post

Many consider bullpen coach Bob Geren the front-runner for the A's managerial job based on his long friendship with GM Billy Beane. The A's kicked off their managerial search Tuesday by interviewing bullpen coach Geren in Phoenix. Angels pitching coach Bud Black might be on the list of external candidates; his name was discussed the last time Oakland had an opening.
-- San Francisco Chronicle

[Timberwolf]

Thanks for posting some of this stuff, BG. I appreciate it.

[yagsy]

I heard today the following:
Manny Ramirez says he wants to play for the Yankees, possible deal to send Sheffield to Boston. :Wow: that would be an interesting marriage between the fans in right field and Sheffield! :laff:

OR
Sheff to go to Chicago White Sox for Rowand to NYY and more White Sox players in that deal.

Also who could go to NYY Jacques Jones (that's fine) but Brian Giles. The Yankees would have to throw ALOT of $$$ to get Gilly to consider the Northeast.

Philly is really going to throw everything on the table to resign Billy Wagner. The Phillies President and CEO is visiting Wagner at his home in VA later this week.

Marlins made an offer to Joe Girardi for the manager's job.

Bucky Dent may be hired as a coach to work with Jerry Narron.

Stottlemeyer will not be offered any job in Seattle (lives near Seattle) according to Mike Hargrove, manager of the M's.

That's what I know.

[Timberwolf]

I think Jacque is heading to St. Louis. He will do well over there with that lineup and he will be a fan favorite in Stl. He was one of the Twins best clutch hitters IMO.

[Royce]

I heard today the following:
Manny Ramirez says he wants to play for the Yankees, possible deal to send Sheffield to Boston. :Wow: that would be an interesting marriage between the fans in right field and Sheffield! :laff:



Yeah!! Why would either team ever do that? Some guy in Newsday wrote about it, i was like wtf are you crazy.

[Timberwolf]

Royce: Acutally, Bob Klapisch wrote the same thing in the Bergen Record. I think yags was referring to Klapischs article.

http://www.northjersey.com/page.php?qstr=eXJpcnk3ZjczN2Y3dnFlZUVFeXkyNjgmZmdi ZWw3Zjd2cWVlRUV5eTY3OTA4ODImeXJpcnk3ZjcxN2Y3dnFlZU VFeXk2

[Thedatch]

If David Wells can do it, then so can Sheffield. That having been said, I would most definately swear off the red sox if we got sheffield from the yankees over the off-season.

[milky_way]

I heard today the following:
Manny Ramirez says he wants to play for the Yankees
HAH, Manny never fails to entertain :ass:

Yanks, for the love of God: say NO to Damon.

[Royce]

Royce: Acutally, Bob Klapisch wrote the same thing in the Bergen Record. I think yags was referring to Klapischs article.

http://www.northjersey.com/page.php?qstr=eXJpcnk3ZjczN2Y3dnFlZUVFeXkyNjgmZmdi ZWw3Zjd2cWVlRUV5eTY3OTA4ODImeXJpcnk3ZjcxN2Y3dnFlZU VFeXk2

Yeah, Jon Heymen wrote this one in Newsday yesterday. http://www.newsday.com/sports/baseball/yankees/ny-spjon1012,0,4662476.column?coll=ny-yankees-print

He also talks about the 10 things they need to do this offseason, which I agree with for the most part, but some are just way out of the question.

[Durango53]

Contrary to Yankees rumors, the Twins insist there is "zero interest" in trading outfielder Torii Hunter.

[Timberwolf]

Torii could be traded, but it has to be a good deal. There is no way he is heading to NY. NY sports writers need to stop dreaming.

Royce: I hope you don't read Jon Heyman at all. The guy is a dope. I think Ken Davidoff is the best baseball writer in baseball. He is the only writer of all the NY writers that seems to give the Twins some love.

[Royce]

Torii could be traded, but it has to be a good deal. There is no way he is heading to NY. NY sports writers need to stop dreaming.

Royce: I hope you don't read Jon Heyman at all. The guy is a dope. I think Ken Davidoff is the best baseball writer in baseball. He is the only writer of all the NY writers that seems to give the Twins some love.


I don't. I think he's retarded.

[Baseball Guru]

Indians GM Mark Shapiro is quick to pour cold water - buckets of it - on simmering talk that the club might be interested in re-acquiring Jim Thome, the former Tribe slugger who's now with the Philadelphia Phillies.
-- Cleveland Plain Dealer

Brian Cashman is believed to be on the Phillies' short list of GM candidates, possibly even the favorite.
-- Newsday


In the Yankees clubhouse, Tino Martinez and Tom Gordon packed up boxes, perhaps signifying an end to their tenures with the team. Martinez said he wanted to return. But Gordon, the setup man, said he would seek opportunities to be a closer elsewhere.
-- New York Times

Now that he has made it clear he wants to close, Tom Gordon could become one of the most coveted relief pitchers on the market. And after Braden Looper's shaky, injury-filled season, it seems as though the Mets will be looking for a new closer.
-- New York Daily News

As umpire Doug Eddings stepped off American Airlines flight 1455 in Anaheim yesterday, he was met by two Orange County sheriffs. They weren't there to arrest him, they were there to protect him.
-- New York Post

As the Yankees begin their search for Mel Stottlemyre's replacement, one member of the rotation gave an endorsement to Atlanta's Leo Mazzone. Jaret Wright showed up at Yankee Stadium yesterday to empty his locker. The 29-year-old right-hander said Mazzone would be a good choice. Under Mazzone in 2004, Wright had his best season, going 15-8.
-- New York Post

Names to keep in mind for Yankees pitching coach are Brian Price, formerly of the Mariners and Chuck Hernandez, Tampa Bay's pitching coach.
-- New York Post

One day after taking several direct hits from Mel Stottlemyre on his way out, George Steinbrenner responded in a positive light through a statement. "Mel Stottlemyre will always be a Yankee," said Steinbrenner. "While it's no secret that I can be a very difficult boss, Mel has always conducted himself as a professional and a gentleman. I wish he and Jean much success and happiness in the future."
-- New York Post

[Baseball Guru]

Twins general manager Terry Ryan and Paul Molitor have talked about the possibility of the hall of famer from St. Paul succeeding departed Al Newman as a coach.
-- St. Paul Pioneer Press

New York Mets Senior Vice President Jim Duquette met with Orioles officials, including team owner Peter G. Angelos, for more than five hours yesterday, to discuss an upper-level management position in the club's front office.
-- Baltimore Sun

Cardinals manager Tony La Russa classified Reggie Sanders' availability as "50-50" for Saturday's game. Sander suffered a sprained lower back and whiplash symptoms, according to team medical staff. The tumble on the left field warning track forced him from the game, left him without an RBI for the first time in 11 games. Team orthopedic consultant Dr. George Paletta described the aftermath to La Russa as "a train wreck."
-- St. Louis Post-Dispatch

Tony La Russa met at length with pitcher Jason Marquis on Thursday to discuss the pitcher's reaction to a bullpen assignment for the National League Championship Series. La Russa, who said he could understand Marquis' disappointment but not his public venting, said he wanted to make sure the righthander was in a proper frame of mind to pitch in relief.
-- St. Louis Post-Dispatch

The Red Sox have an array of offseason issues to address, beginning with their general manager, but there have been recent indications reliever Mike Timlin could be among the first free agents to return to the club.
-- Boston Herald

Royce Clayton indicated Thursday that he appears headed toward free agency, where he believes his market value will be greater than the one-year offer the Diamondbacks presented this week. Clayton would prefer the security of a multiyear deal, and he says he took a hometown discount to play this year and doesn't expect to do it again for the Diamondbacks, who are believed to have made an offer worth around $1.5 million.
-- Arizona Republic

The Rockies moved closer to retaining top setup man Mike DeJean. DeJean's agent will make a counterproposal today, trying to bridge the gap over incentives in his contract after making strides in the base salary desired.
-- Denver Post

One of the topics is expected to be whether Ryan Howard should play outfield in winter ball. The Phillies tried Howard in left field last spring in Clearwater, Fla., and it did not go well. But with Howard and Jim Thome both playing first base, the Phillies could try it again.
-- Philadelphia Inquirer

Major League Baseball may use an instant-replay system someday to decide critically important calls, like whether the third strike to the White Sox's A.J. Pierzynski touched the ground, but probably not while Bud Selig is commissioner.
-- Chicago Tribune

The Devil Rays made Wade Townsend their top 2005 draft pick hoping he could make up for the year he missed because of a contract standoff with the Orioles. Now the former Rice pitcher is likely to miss another full year after tearing the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow pitching in the Arizona Fall League. Townsend will be examined next week by Rays orthopedic physician Koco Eaton and seems headed for Tommy John surgery, which would probably sideline him until spring training 2007.
-- St. Petersburg Times

There are now five names on the A's list to interview for their manager's job. Larry Bowa and Jamie Quirk are also targets, according to a major-league source. They join a group that includes Oakland bench coach Bob Geren and third-base coach Ron Washington, and Rangers pitching coach Orel Hershiser.
-- San Francisco Chronicle

The Arizona Diamondbacks view Padres General Manager Kevin Towers as a candidate for their general manager's job and hope to interview him this month, a Diamondbacks official said yesterday.
-- San Diego Union-Tribune

[yagsy]

I thought the A's had come to terms with Ken MAcha? I guess not, huh!

Complete details about Kevin TOwers in the Padres forum if anyone is intersted.

Royce Clayton needs to go to the AL unless he plays 2nd base for the Mets. OMG is he a pest against my teams. I swear he's worse than the premiere pest in David Eckstein.

[Baseball Guru]

They did JA... I think that was written the day before they announced he would return.. I was a couple of days behind...

[milky_way]

As the Yankees begin their search for Mel Stottlemyre's replacement, one member of the rotation gave an endorsement to Atlanta's Leo Mazzone. Jaret Wright showed up at Yankee Stadium yesterday to empty his locker. The 29-year-old right-hander said Mazzone would be a good choice. Under Mazzone in 2004, Wright had his best season, going 15-8.
-- New York Post

No sh!t Wright wants Mazzone. He's the only person who can save his career :laff:

[Baseball Guru]

The Dodgers want to have a preliminary talk with Kirk Gibson about their managerial vacancy. The club is not sure it wants to bring Gibson in for an interview, but would like to talk with him on the phone. Gibson has never managed. His coaching experience in pro ball consists of his work the last three seasons as bench coach and then hitting coach on the staff of Alan Trammell, the former Tigers manager.
-- Los Angeles Daily News

The Dodgers will expand their search for a manager beyond the five candidates interviewed last week, and names familiar to longtime followers of the team will get consideration. Although General Manager Paul DePodesta would not provide names, a highly placed source said former Dodgers Bobby Valentine, Kirk Gibson and Orel Hershiser are expected to be contacted.
-- Los Angeles Times

The mother of Yankee star Alex Rodriguez is defending her son's poor playoff performance, saying the slugger was secretly grieving over the death of his uncle. "I know how much he suffered from the death of his uncle without being able to do anything, from listening to me crying and not being able to be there," A-Rod's mother, Lourdes Navarro, told the Dominican Republic newspaper Listin.
-- New York Daily News

The Los Angeles Angels would like to add a big bat to their lineup this off-season. They are likely to target the guy who killed them in this American League Championship Series. Word around the Angels is they will make a run at Chicago White Sox first baseman Paul Konerko when the free-agent bidding season opens 15 days after the World Series ends. Konerko has a connection to the Angels. He was a minor-league catcher in the Los Angeles Dodgers system when Mike Scioscia, now the Angels' manager, was the Dodgers' catching instructor.
-- Philadelphia Inquirer

Manager Ozzie Guillen remained vague Sunday on whether he would return in 2006 if the White Sox won the World Series.
-- Chicago Tribune

[Baseball Guru]

Don't be surprised if the Angels, who have plenty of prospects, are among the teams asking about Manny Ramirez, but one well-positioned industry source dismissed the notion that the Mets would consider dealing center fielder Carlos Beltran in a possible Ramirez deal.
-- Boston Globe

When asked after the Angels' season-ending loss to the White Sox on Sunday night whether he expected to return to Anaheim in 2006, free-agent left-hander Jarrod Washburn responded, "No." There was no bitterness in his voice, though.
-- Los Angeles Times


Governor Tim Pawlenty acknowledged it's possible that if a stadium bill isn't passed soon, Major League Baseball might get involved in moving the Twins.
-- Minneapolis Star Tribune

There's still time for the Braves to re-sign shortstop Rafael Furcal, which manager Bobby Cox says they are trying hard to do. But with Furcal and general manager John Schuerholz out of town, the sides aren't expected to resume contract negotiations until next week, about one week before the free-agent filing period begins.
-- Atlanta Journal-Constitution

No update on Red Sox GM Theo Epstein's contract negotiations with CEO Larry Lucchino, which are being monitored by John W. Henry and Tom Werner with two weeks remaining before Epstein's current deal expires on Oct. 31.
-- Boston Globe

Phillies president David Montgomery has declined to identify a list of candidates, and has been tight-lipped about the qualities he is looking for in his new man. But baseball sources say he wants to hire from outside the organization. Those sources also say New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman leads Montgomery's list. The Yankees are not expected to give the Phillies permission to speak with Cashman while he is under contract. That means the Phillies might have to wait 15 more days to speak with him, provided he doesn't sign a contract extension.
-- Philadelphia Inquirer

Joe Girardi met with the Devil Rays on Sunday while sources said the Marlins are expected to continue their push for the managerial candidate with follow-up talks that could commence today. The Marlins are expected to intensify their efforts to hire Girardi, the 41-year-old bench coach for the Yankees, to replace Jack McKeon. The Marlins plan to interview Devil Rays third-base coach Tom Foley for the manager's job today and already have spoken to five others about the position.
-- Miami Herald

The Rays have at least two other potentially intriguing candidates: Angels bench coach Joe Maddon, whom they can't can talk to until now that Los Angeles is eliminated, and former Rangers and Mets manager Bobby Valentine, who is managing in Japan. But they may have to move more quickly if they want Joe Girardi, who is coveted by the Marlins.
-- St. Petersburg Times

One American League executive said yesterday that Bobby Valentine, who is managing Chiba Lotte in the Japan playoffs, is a leading candidate to replace Lou Piniella as manager of the Devil Rays.
-- Boston Globe

The New York media has not heard from manager Joe Torre since immediately after the Yankees' Game Five loss Monday night in Anaheim, which made them the most expensive division series loser in history. But the silence is not expected to last as Torre will deliver his State of the Yankees address this week, perhaps as soon as Monday. And it figures to be a doozy.
-- Buffalo News

Baltimore, according to one team source, has in interest in Atlanta Braves pitching coach Leo Mazzone, a close friend of Sam Perlozzo, but does not want to proceed until Ray Miller's status is determined.
-- Washington Post

Frank Robinson and other people on the minority watch are not impressed with developments in the managerial ranks in the first two weeks of postseason hiring. A handful of minority candidates have been interviewed for vacancies, but there's a sense that the interviews were intended simply to adhere to Commissioner Bud Selig's six-and-a-half-year-old directive.
-- New York Times

Orioles manager Sam Perlozzo is expected to make several decisions on the composition of his coaching staff as early as today, including likely announcing the return of longtime hitting coach Terry Crowley.
-- Baltimore Sun

[Baseball Guru]

The Phillies are expected to shop first baseman, Jim Thome who is owed at least $46 million over the remainder of his contract.
-- Philadelphia Inquirer

Brian Cashman could command $2.5 million a year for four years because The Boss' list of replacements is super-model thin. The in-house leader is VP of scouting Damon Oppenheimer, who is inexperienced. George Steinbrenner likes former Red Sox GM Dan Duquette but that would be a PR disaster.
-- New York Post

With the Dodger front office deep in deliberations, Terry Collins has emerged as the leading candidate to become manager, several high-level sources said Monday. Collins has the strongest resume of the six men who have been granted interviews and has gained the trust of General Manager Paul DePodesta in his role as director of player development.
-- Los Angeles Times

Agent Arn Tellem said he plans to talk to the Yankees this week about an extension for Hideki Matsui. Tellem said a reported three-year deal for $31.5 million was never offered by the club. Matsui is likely looking for a contract that will be longer than the three-year pact that will expire on Nov. 15. If Matsui isn't signed by then, he becomes a free agent. The Dodgers are expected to show interest.
-- New York Post

Catcher Bengie Molina is a free agent who could command a three- or four-year deal in the $7-million-a-year range, and the Angels have a highly touted prospect in Jeff Mathis, whom Manager Mike Scioscia said "is ready for the challenge" of the big leagues. But unlike their approach to Troy Glaus, it appears the Angels will attempt to re-sign Molina, who hit .295 with 15 home runs and 69 runs batted in this season and is considered one of baseball's best defensive catchers.
-- Los Angeles Times

The Yankees have received permission and are speaking with Braves pitching coach Leo Mazzone, who oversaw the legendary Atlanta pitching staffs of the late '90s.
-- New York Daily News

The decision not to invite Elrod Hendricks back to his coaching staff was so gut-wrenching for Orioles manager Sam Perlozzo because Hendricks isn't just a longtime colleague, he is one of Perlozzo's closest friends. However, Baltimore took a first step toward possibly reuniting Perlozzo with another one of his closest buddies. The Orioles confirmed last night that they asked the Braves for permission to speak to Leo Mazzone, their premier pitching coach. The Orioles have not heard back from the Braves.
-- Baltimore Sun

If a bidding war for Leo Mazzone ensues, one advantage the Orioles should have is Mazzone's fondness for Sam Perlozzo. The two grew up together in Western Maryland and have remained best friends. Mazzone, who has been in the Atlanta organization since 1979, even has said publicly that one thing he'd like to do before he retires is be Perlozzo's pitching coach. Mazzone is a sensitive topic to Orioles officials because their current pitching coach, Ray Miller, is under contract until the end of the month.
-- Baltimore Sun

Multiple sources within the Yankee organization say Joe Torre is expected to meet the media today at the Stadium. The theory running through the organization is that Torre isn't going to be fired by George Steinbrenner. Nor is Torre going to resign, and he hasn't been negotiating a buyout of the $13.1 million owed him for the next two years.
-- New York Post

A week ago, the tears that flowed from Brian Cashman's eyes following a devastating Game 5 ALDS loss to the Angels were taken as a sign that Cashman's run as Yankees GM was over. Now, it's not a definite Cashman will leave The Bronx, even if he is the Phillies' No. 1 choice to replace Ed Wade. George Steinbrenner has made retaining Cashman his No. 1 priority, and wants it done before Cashman's contract expires on Oct. 31.
-- New York Post

The Boss is willing to give Brian Cashman more say in personnel decisions, but the final say will belong to George Steinbrenner. That's likely to appeal to Cashman, who often grew tired of the second-guessers around Steinbrenner stepping on his plans or telling The Boss his moves were wrong.
-- New York Post

The dismissal of director of player development Adam Wogan has deeper implications. It is an indication that Jim Bowden, who is a candidate for the general manager's job in Arizona, could continue to shake up the Nationals' front office even before the club has a new owner and before his own status is clarified.
-- Washington Post

A source with knowledge of the discussions said the Marlins have made Joe Girardi a preliminary offer but that an agreement had not been reached. Girardi, the 41-year-old bench coach for the New York Yankees, interviewed with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays on Sunday for their managing vacancy.
-- Miami Herald

[yagsy]

Here's what I heard today, announced on Mighty 1090 Radio Station, San Diego:

Torre stays, sources say that Torre is waiting for Steinbrenner to pull the plug because he'll owe Torre the 13.5 mil left on his contract and Steiny won't pay it. So he's going to try to make things miserable to make Torre quit. It's a waiting game, who is going to call the other bluff?

Trot Nixon has surgery today, not sure what, I'm sure a Red Sox fan posted details in their forum.

Ichiro does not want to be traded, wants to stay in Seattle, has informed mangement there.

Paul Konerko is reportedly looking for a 4yr 15mil per yr contract.

Millwood, Boras client, looking 4yr, 50 mil contract.

Phillies use Urbina if Wagner is signed elsewhere, so they are not too concerned about Wagner going but they would like to retain him, especially if he may sign with a division rival like the Mets.

Angels are in the hunt for Manny Ramirez and it's rumored from radio guys at WFAN (flagship radio station of the Mets) that a very top priority is getting Manny on the Mets. This conversation was between a guy from 1090 visiting family in the NYC area and knew some guys working at the FAN.

[Timberwolf]

If the Twins move out of Minnesota, I will blame this on Tim Pawlenty, the governor of Minnesota not Carl Pohlad. That Pawlenty needs to stop misling the public with how he is interested when in reality he does not want the Twins to get the new stadium.

[Baseball Guru]

Larry Walker, a Cardinal for this past season and the final two months of the 2004 season, made official what he had been hinting at for most of the season: He's taking his league MVP honor, seven Gold Gloves and three batting titles and calling it a career.
-- St. Louis Post-Dispatch

With the Minnesota governor refusing to call a special session and the Twins going to court to make sure they are free to move if they so desire, it's beginning to look more and more like that the 2007 Twins will be playing in Las Vegas.
-- Minneapolis Star Tribune

Billy Wagner received the Phillies' latest, best offer yesterday when agent Bean Stringfellow drove from Richmond to visit Wagner's alpaca farm outside Charlottesville, Va. Wagner liked it. He wouldn't say exactly what it was, but acknowledged that it met or came close to most of his current demands: 3 years for $30 million, all guaranteed money, with a full no-trade clause.
-- Philadelphia Daily News

Not called on for even an out of the postseason, Cardinals lefthanded reliever Ray King said that if he cannot pitch in the playoffs for the Cardinals, then they should trade him.
-- St. Louis Post-Dispatch

There has been speculation that new Marlins manager Joe Girardi could surround himself with a couple of former managers, including Don Zimmer and Don Baylor. Former major-league first baseman Andres Galarraga is likely to receive consideration to become the Marlins' hitting coach. Girardi also could pick a bench coach, bullpen coach and third-base coach.
-- Miami Herald

Don Zimmer, despite a close association with Joe Girardi, said he has no plans to join him in South Florida and plans to stay with the Rays as a senior adviser as long as they want him.
-- St. Petersburg Times

Though it appears the Baltimore Orioles were close to a deal to land Atlanta Braves pitching coach Leo Mazzone, talks hit a snag Wednesday that could delay his hiring or temporarily suspend negotiations. The Braves, according to one baseball source, are asking the Orioles for a prospect in return for Mazzone, whose contract with Atlanta expires Nov. 15. The Orioles could try to sign Mazzone after that date, but it could allow the New York Yankees -- who dropped efforts to sign Mazzone on Wednesday -- back into contention.
-- Washington Post

With Leo Mazzone headed to Baltimore, it appears Ron Guidry has become the leading candidate for the Bombers' vacant pitching coach job. Other candidates include Joe Kerrigan, Don Cooper, Chuck Hernandez and Dave Righetti.
-- New York Post

Another day went by without the Dodgers contacting any of their former players about becoming the next manager. Contrary to published reports, the Dodgers have not asked the Texas Rangers for permission to speak to pitching coach Orel Hershiser. Terry Collins is considered the leading candidate, but owner Frank McCourt wants to meet with more than one finalist. Two Dodger sources said San Francisco bench coach Ron Wotus had a strong interview.
-- Los Angeles Times

The Padres today gave the Arizona Diamondbacks permission to interview Kevin Towers for their general manager position. Compensation could factor into Towers' chances of landing in Arizona; Towers is guaranteed a seven-figure salary in 2006 and 2007 as part of an extension issued by then-CEO Bob Vizas and Padres chairman John Moores.
-- San Diego Union-Tribune

Jim Duquette, the Mets' former GM who served this year as the senior VP of baseball operations, is heading to Baltimore. According to a baseball official, Duquette was offered a job to be the Orioles' VP of baseball operations and will take it.
-- New York Post

The Dodgers plan to tear out every seat in the ballpark this winter and replace them with new seats in pastel shades -- sky blue, turquoise, light orange and yellow -- that evoke the original look of Dodger Stadium. The Dodgers hope to provide better sightlines and spacing by reducing seating capacity in the pavilion area from 1,600 to 1,100 and introducing individual boxes with tables, reminiscent of box seats at the Hollywood Bowl.
-- Los Angeles Times

[Timberwolf]

With the Minnesota governor refusing to call a special session and the Twins going to court to make sure they are free to move if they so desire, it's beginning to look more and more like that the 2007 Twins will be playing in Las Vegas.
-- Minneapolis Star Tribune

This was from Sid Hartman, the long-time sports columnist of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune. Sid has been saying how this team would move since 1991 and it never happened. This is just Sid's ploy to get the state government to do something and come through with the deal. He has been saying this for years.

Who knows what's going to happen? I think the Twins will stay for awhile. I don't see them moving just yet. I am glad the Twins at least the sue Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission though only so the state can make a decision about the stadium. I think TC has a better idea of this than me so he can give you a better answer.

One thing for sure. Sooner or later, something has to happen. Either the Twins new stadium will be in Minneapolis or it will be out of state. It's simple as that. Considering there are lot of other cities who want baseball, Twins would be an attractive entity for those cities especially Vegas or Oregon. I for one hope it does not come to that, but you can't blame Carl if he sells the team to an owner who will move the franchise. Carl has offered numerous opportunities to start a new stadium, but the state has never listened. At some point, he has to give up and start looking at Plan B. Playing at the Metrodome should not be an option.

[Timberwolf]

Here's your Monday Rumor Mill courtest of CNNSI.com:

Houston Astros pitcher Roger Clemens had a cortisone shot after Game 1 of the World Series, according to a team official, making it less likely he will pitch again in the series.
-- Washington Post

According to the team official, the Astros are leaning toward starting rookie right-hander Ezequiel Astacio in Roger Clemens's place if the latter is unable to pitch. A second option would be lefty Wandy Rodriguez. Still another option for the Astros would be to use their Games 2, 3 and 4 pitchers -- Andy Pettitte, Roy Oswalt and Brandon Backe -- on three days' rest in Games 5, 6 and 7 (if necessary). But pitching coach Jim Hickey said that was unlikely.
-- Washington Post

It came as no surprise Sunday when Astros Manager Phil Garner said he still considered Roger Clemens his starter in a potential Game 5 of the World Series on Thursday.
-- New York Times

They might be fighting words in this town, but Ozzie Guillen said them anyway. "I hate Wrigley Field," he said. The Chicago Cubs, occupants of Wrigley Field, have not appeared in the World Series since 1945. The White Sox are in the World Series this year, but their manager says this will remain a Cub town even if the Sox win. "We'd have to win seven World Series in a row," Guillen said.
-- Los Angeles Times

According to White Sox officials, commissioner Bud Selig has assured them he will order the Astros to keep the dome open at Minute Maid Park if there is no rain. As the Cardinals and Braves will attest, the hometown crowd din in Minute Maid when the dome is closed is a significant advantage for the Astros, who kept it closed throughout the NLDS and NLCS despite perfect weather outside. This season the Astros were 15-11 at home with the dome open and 36-17 with it closed.
-- New York Daily News

Word is, George Steinbrenner is blaming Billy Connors for allowing Leo Mazzone to use the Yankees to get a sweeter deal with the Orioles and has eliminated Connors, a friend of Mazzone's, from meetings.
-- New York Post

Maybe the Tigers can get Atlanta Braves' pitcher John Smoltz to come back to his home state, Michigan, and help turn this sad-sack franchise around.
-- Detroit News

While the Yankee world anxiously awaits Brian Cashman's decision whether to stay or leave as GM, another potential high command defection could be forthcoming if Gene Michael is unable to get his authority and responsibilities restored. It has been learned that the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, who are looking for an experienced player evaluator to work with 24-year-old Andrew Friedman - a baseball neophyte who has been put in charge of the baseball operations by new owner Stuart Sternberg - have put Michael at the top of their list, if they can get permission to talk to him.
-- New York Daily News

The unhurried Dodger managerial search had candidates worrying, wondering and wandering Sunday. It's been 10 days since Terry Collins interviewed, and he has been on pins and needles. It has been eight days since General Manager Paul DePodesta said he would include former Dodger players in expanding the list of candidates. Turns out only former Dodger pitching great Orel Hershiser was given an interview, although DePodesta said several other candidates were "talked to or about." Hershiser flew home to Dallas on Sunday after attending a college football game Saturday and does not expect to be interviewed until at least Tuesday.
-- Los Angeles Times

With a lot of teams looking for catching help, and the pool of available catchers thin, an interesting situation is developing in Atlanta. The emergence of young catcher Brian McCann could lead the Braves to put Johnny Estrada on the market.
-- Newark Star-Ledger

Right-hander Pedro Astacio and infielder Neifi Perez, both former Rockies, are on the list of players the team has interest in signing this off-season.
-- Rocky Mountain News

Robin Ventura said he had declined Jim Tracy's overtures to join the coaching staff of the Pittsburgh Pirates.
-- Los Angeles Times

The Padres yesterday fired assistant trainer Jim Daniel, who filled that job for eight seasons and worked 14 seasons as a minor league trainer for the franchise. Daniel's dismissal was unrelated to the club's questionable handling of ace pitcher Jake Peavy, whose bruised right side was known to trainer Todd Hutcheson but not to manager Bruce Bochy going into Peavy's disastrous Game 1 start in the playoffs this month.
-- San Diego Union-Tribune

[Timberwolf]

My comments:

-- Why are the White Sox players, Ozzie Guillen, and others are so obessed about the Cubs being Chicago's town? Why it's good to be realistic and honest, why be obessed with the Cubs. This is not the Cubs time. It's the White Sox time. White Sox can take over Chicago if they continue to keep winning and playing like they have this season.

-- Why it has taken Bud Selig a long time to tell the Astros to open the roof? Quite frankly, the roof whether it's open or not should not be an issue. It's how you play that counts.

-- Georgie Porgie should know better. He is the one that created the mess by creating lot of chefs in the kitches and you can understand why Leo Mazzone wanted no part of NY. Who wants the nonsense?

-- Good luck to the Tigers recruiting John Smoltz. It ain't happening.

-- Yankees should let Gene Michael walk if they are not making him to do anything. It's not fair for Gene to be employed when he is not doing anything.

[Baseball Guru]

Word is, George Steinbrenner is blaming Billy Connors for allowing Leo Mazzone to use the Yankees to get a sweeter deal with the Orioles and has eliminated Connors, a friend of Mazzone's, from meetings.
-- New York Post

Maybe the Tigers can get Atlanta Braves' pitcher John Smoltz to come back to his home state, Michigan, and help turn this sad-sack franchise around.
-- Detroit News

While the Yankee world anxiously awaits Brian Cashman's decision whether to stay or leave as GM, another potential high command defection could be forthcoming if Gene Michael is unable to get his authority and responsibilities restored. It has been learned that the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, who are looking for an experienced player evaluator to work with 24-year-old Andrew Friedman - a baseball neophyte who has been put in charge of the baseball operations by new owner Stuart Sternberg - have put Michael at the top of their list, if they can get permission to talk to him.
-- New York Daily News

The unhurried Dodger managerial search had candidates worrying, wondering and wandering Sunday. It's been 10 days since Terry Collins interviewed, and he has been on pins and needles. It has been eight days since General Manager Paul DePodesta said he would include former Dodger players in expanding the list of candidates. Turns out only former Dodger pitching great Orel Hershiser was given an interview, although DePodesta said several other candidates were "talked to or about." Hershiser flew home to Dallas on Sunday after attending a college football game Saturday and does not expect to be interviewed until at least Tuesday.
-- Los Angeles Times

With a lot of teams looking for catching help, and the pool of available catchers thin, an interesting situation is developing in Atlanta. The emergence of young catcher Brian McCann could lead the Braves to put Johnny Estrada on the market.
-- Newark Star-Ledger

Right-hander Pedro Astacio and infielder Neifi Perez, both former Rockies, are on the list of players the team has interest in signing this off-season.
-- Rocky Mountain News

Robin Ventura said he had declined Jim Tracy's overtures to join the coaching staff of the Pittsburgh Pirates.
-- Los Angeles Times

The Padres yesterday fired assistant trainer Jim Daniel, who filled that job for eight seasons and worked 14 seasons as a minor league trainer for the franchise. Daniel's dismissal was unrelated to the club's questionable handling of ace pitcher Jake Peavy, whose bruised right side was known to trainer Todd Hutcheson but not to manager Bruce Bochy going into Peavy's disastrous Game 1 start in the playoffs this month.
-- San Diego Union-Tribune

[Baseball Guru]

Both sides remained mum on the negotiations for a new contract for general manager Theo Epstein , but it appears another day passed without progress. The Sox have offered Epstein a three-year deal in the neighborhood of $850,000 to $900,000, which more than doubles his original contract, which was believed to be a three-year deal that topped out at around $350,000.
-- Boston Globe

Agent Greg Genske indicated Manny Ramirez has yet to request a trade, but the slugger would prefer being dealt to the Indians -- his former club -- or the Angels if he does ask out. Genske plans to meet with Red Sox owner John Henry in Florida next week.
-- New York Daily News

The agent for Manny Ramirez said Thursday that if the Boston slugger asks to be traded this winter, or if the Red Sox decide to pursue a trade of the outfielder, Ramirez's first choice will be to go to the Angels. "As long as he's under contract, his loyalty is to the Red Sox," Greg Genske said. "But if the Red Sox do want to trade him, the Angels are the most attractive option. Manny has a lot of respect for Orlando Cabrera and Vladimir Guerrero and for that organization."
-- Los Angeles Times

Met fans can cross Manny Ramirez off their offseason wish list. It appears he has done the same to the Mets. Ramirez has no desire to play in Flushing, even if it would mean reuniting with ex-teammate Pedro Martinez, his agent said.
-- New York Daily News

The Mets feverishly pursued Manny Ramirez before the July 31 nonwaiver trading deadline, after Ramirez requested to be dealt. The organizations attempted a three-team trade with the Devil Rays, which would have landed Ramirez and Tampa Bay's Danys Baez and Julio Lugo in Flushing while shipping Mike Cameron, Aubrey Huff and Aaron Heilman to Boston.
-- New York Daily News

Paul Konerko's father, Hank, raised some doubt about his son's future with the Sox. Konerko will be a free agent after this season. "[The White Sox] had a whole year to talk to him," Hank Konerko told the Scottsdale Republic for a story to be published Saturday. "Right now, the ball is in Paul's corner. He's got a good agent (Craig Landis) that will represent him. Paul knows what his value is, and so do the White Sox and a dozen other teams. "He absolutely loves Chicago, the people on the team, the people who run it, the fans. He really would love to stay in Chicago. But having said that, the hometown discount is gone. He is going to listen to everyone and narrow it down. "
-- Chicago Tribune

[Baseball Guru]

Astros owner Drayton McLane, general manager Tim Purpura and manager Phil Garner have a few questions to answer this winter, beginning with the future of Roger Clemens. The Astros would like to have Clemens, 43, back, but the 341-game winner has not given the organization any inclination as to whether he will return for a 23rd major-league season.
-- Houston Chronicle

Brad Ausmus makes his off-season home in San Diego and wants to talk to his wife before deciding whether he'd like a one-year contract or a multiyear deal. If Ausmus doesn't re-sign, the Astros' chances with Roger Clemens could diminish because Clemens has said he would prefer to have Ausmus back. But Ausmus says he and Clemens aren't a package deal.
-- Houston Chronicle

There have been whispers that Paul Konerko remains miffed at the White Sox for not trying harder to sign him to a contract extension last spring, and he left a trail of breadcrumbs during the team's early-morning celebration to lead to that conclusion. Konerko should command a five-year contract worth $70 million or more, depending on the number of teams involved in the bidding.
-- Baltimore Sun

Besides trying to re-sign Paul Konerko, a major offseason task for the Sox will be figuring out what to do with Frank Thomas. The expected scenario is that Thomas activates his player option for $10 million next season. The Sox then are expected to follow by buying out the deal. But that doesn't necessarily mean Thomas will be playing elsewhere. Thomas would become a free agent, but he still could work out something with the only franchise he has known.
-- Chicago Sun-Times

Look for the White Sox to shop Orlando Hernandez and outfielder Jermaine Dye. Hernandez will make $4.5 million and Dye $5 million next year.
-- Cleveland Plain Dealer

Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein and president/CEO Larry Lucchino met multiple times yesterday, and by last night there was every indication an agreement will be reached that will keep Epstein as GM for the next three years. A formal announcement could come today. Epstein and the Sox were believed to be only $300,000 apart earlier in the week. On Tuesday, Lucchino offered Epstein $1.2 million per year for three years, upping the club's initial offer of $850,000 per season. Epstein, whose contract expires Monday, is believed to have made $350,000 this season.
-- Boston Globe

[Baseball Guru]

Josh Byrnes, the Sox' assistant general manager, was in Boston last night but was scheduled to travel to Arizona today to be introduced as the new GM of the Diamondbacks. Jed Hoyer, the Sox' 31-year-old assistant to the GM, is the leading candidate to replace Byrnes.
-- Boston Globe

Though it is not spelled out in his contract, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said that he received an understanding that he, and only he, would sit atop the chain of command in the Yankees' fractured baseball operations department. The in-fighting among George Steinbrenner's lieutenants in Tampa made last season miserable, Cashman said.
-- New York Times


Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt will interview for the Devil Rays manager's job, the eighth candidate to do so. He said baseball officials have encouraged him to get more involved, and he considers the opportunity to join the Rays an exciting one. Candidates already interviewed are Rays coaches Tom Foley, Billy Hatcher and John McLaren; Triple-A manager Bill Evers; former Tigers manager Alan Trammell; and Braves hitting coach Terry Pendleton.
-- St. Petersburg Times

Mike Piazza filed for free agency yesterday with an announcement of it to come today, according to a source with knowledge of the situation. Catcher is one of the Mets' needs this offseason, and there are several options in the free agent market.
-- New York Post

Frank McCourt will interview Terry Collins tonight, a high-level source said Thursday, and additional candidates could meet with the Dodger owner before a manager is hired. Besides Collins, none of the five candidates interviewed by General Manager Paul DePodesta have been contacted by the Dodgers since their interviews two weeks ago. However, a source said McCourt might want to meet with one or more of them.
-- Los Angeles Times

The Phillies' GM search just became a lot more interesting. Gerry Hunsicker, long considered a leading candidate for the Phillies' vacant general manager's job, interviewed for the post with team president David Montgomery yesterday in Philadelphia.
-- Philadelphia Inquirer

The Rockies began their free-agent pursuit Thursday with a significant shift in priorities. They are seeking relievers, not financial relief. With reliever Mike DeJean back in the fold, their wish list includes the Los Angeles Dodgers' Elmer Dessens, Athletics setup man Jay Witasick, Giants left-hander Scott Eyre and minor-league free agent Nate Field.
-- Denver Post

Kevin Kohler, the agent for Mariners closer Eddie Guardado, woke up Thursday believing the Mariners weren't going to pick up their option on his client's contract for the 2006 season. By the end of the day, however, Kohler wasn't sure what the Mariners' intentions were. "They said they are not officially declining (to pick up the option)," Kohler said. What does that mean? "We would like to have Eddie back," Mariners general manager Bill Bavasi said Thursday afternoon. "Beyond that, I'm not going to discuss any aspect of our negotiations."
-- Seattle Post-Intelligencer

Cliff Lee, the Indians' 18-game winner, is expected to be ready for spring training in February after undergoing hernia surgery Wednesday in Philadelphia. Lee also underwent hernia surgery at the end of the 2003 season. He felt it hurt his conditioning for the 2004 season, but Wednesday's operation was not that extensive.
-- Cleveland Plain Dealer

[Baseball Guru]

The Angels trading for Manny Ramirez is probably a long shot. At about $20 million per year over the remaining three years of his contract, the left-fielder would not leave a lot of room to sign or re-sign any free agent pitchers, while the cost would also include the loss of some top prospects.
-- losangeles.angels.mlb.com

A key factor that ultimately soured Theo Epstein on the job, according to sources close to the situation, was a column in Sunday's Boston Globe which revealed too much inside information about the relationship between Epstein and his mentor, Larry Lucchino, and slanted the coverage in the team president's favor. Epstein, according to these sources, had several reasons to believe Lucchino was a primary source behind the column and came to the realization that if this information was leaked hours before he was going to agree to a long-term deal, excessive bad faith existed between the two.
-- Boston Herald

At least two friends and business associates of Theo Epstein said they would not be surprised if Epstein sat out a year and pursued other interests rather than enlisting as a candidate for any of the GM jobs currently available -- with the Phillies, Dodgers, Devil Rays, and possibly the Nationals, if that team is sold. One highly placed source in the Sox organization said he wondered all along whether Epstein wanted to return.
-- Boston Globe

A more likely scenario is that Larry Lucchino will turn to someone he also wanted for the Boston job three years ago but knew he'd never get permission to interview: Padres GM Kevin Towers.
-- Boston Globe

The pool of candidates expanded for the Dodgers and other teams searching for general managers when Theo Epstein resigned Monday, turning down a lucrative three-year contract extension. The opening in Boston also provides another potential option for highly sought candidates Pat Gillick and Gerry Hunsicker and increases the Dodgers' urgency to begin interviews for their vacancy. The Dodgers would not comment on whether Epstein would be contacted.
-- Los Angeles Times

Jeff Kent has no contractual power to force the Dodgers to trade him. He did, however, meet with club management Thursday, presumably to officially convey what he's told teammates -- that if the Dodgers do not intend to make a serious attempt to win a championship in 2006, he would rather play elsewhere.
-- losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com

[Baseball Guru]

One of the top priorities for the Cubs this winter will be a leadoff man. If the Florida Marlins make center fielder Juan Pierre available, look for the Cubs to get involved. If the Cubs can land Pierre, they'd likely try to deal center fielder Corey Patterson, who suffered through a miserable year at the plate.
-- The Daily Herald

When the Yankee brass gathers today for organizational meetings in the city, one of the hottest topics discussed by the dysfunctional family will be Hideki Matsui. Sure, the Yankees want Matsui back. And Matsui's first preference is to remain a Yankee.
-- New York Post


There are two potential snags with the Yankees naming Tony Pena as their first-base coach. First, he has committed to manage the Dominican Republic's team during March's World Baseball Classic, which would mean he'd be away from the Yankees for nearly a month during spring training. Second, Pena has been saddled with some personal problems. At the time of his resignation in May, he reportedly had been called to testify in a divorce case that alleged an affair with one of his neighbors.
-- New York Daily News

Rafael Furcal, a rifle-armed shortstop who filed for free agency yesterday, would be willing to play second base for the Mets, his agent, Paul Kinze, said yesterday.
-- New York Daily News

The Mets need a catcher, and they have officially begun the task of exploring possible successors to Mike Piazza. Bengie Molina's agent, Alan Nero, said last night that the Mets have expressed interest in the free-agent backstop.
-- New York Post

The Mets declined Braden Looper's option yesterday, but both the team and the reliever have interest in continuing the partnership. the Mets have talks with Looper, it's unlikely they will revolve around him closing. There are multiple top free-agent closers -- Billy Wagner, B.J. Ryan, Tom Gordon and Trevor Hoffman -- and the Mets have already shown interest in the latter two. The Mets have interest in having Looper return at a reduced rate -- it's possible he could return as a set-up man -- and they still have exclusive negotiating rights with him until Nov. 11.
-- New York Post

The retooling of the 2005 World Series champions started Monday as the White Sox declined the 2006 option on designated hitter Carl Everett while exercising the option on valuable reliever Cliff Politte for $1.2 million.
-- Chicago Tribune

The Cubs welcomed Glendon Rusch back on Monday with no guarantees, no promises and no secret agreements. Rusch will be the Cubs' fifth starter in 2006 ... unless he's not.
-- Chicago Tribune

To get Adam Dunn, the Indians would have to give up three or four premium prospects, and he wouldn't help the Tribe much, anyway. Yes, that's hard to believe, but the team needs a right-handed bat, not another left-handed bat.
-- cleveland.indians.mlb.com

The Padres and free-agent relief pitcher Trevor Hoffman are at least one season and $15 million apart in initial talks regarding a new contract.
-- San Diego Union-Tribune

Phillies president David Montgomery apparently has settled on Pat Gillick or Gerry Hunsicker for the general manager job, and could make an announcement within two days.
-- Philadelphia Inquirer

The Tigers' victory total didn't grow this year, but their off-season shopping list has shrunk. This off-season, "our priority is definitely pitching, and that's where we're going to be primarily focused," said Dave Dombrowski, the team's president and general manager. The biggest roster move involving hitters could be the subtraction of Dmitri Young or Carlos Pena. They are first basemen-designated hitter types on a club where Chris Shelton has established himself at first base.
-- Detroit Free Press

Armed with about $9 million to spend, general manager Dan O'Dowd is taking a more aggressive approach in free agency. Unlike the past three years, when the Rockies were relegated to waiting until December to pursue inexpensive reinforcements, O'Dowd has blanketed agents with calls, identifying key players.
-- Denver Post

Mariners' link to Japan has a chance to get stronger with the news that five-time Japan Gold Glove catcher Kenji Jojima filed for free agency over the weekend. The teams he apparently has the most interest in are the Mets, who are looking for a catcher with Mike Piazza no longer filling that role, and the Mariners, who went through seven catchers last season. The Padres also are believed to have interest.
-- Seattle Post-Intelligencer

Eddie Guardado and his agent say the relief pitcher wants to come back to the Mariners, and the Mariners say they want him back. Coming to an agreement on next year's contract, however, is proving to be increasingly difficult, and Guardado's agent, Kevin Kohler, was moving closer to filing for free agency.
-- Seattle Times

[Baseball Guru]

The Yankees have warned slugger Alex Rodriguez that frequenting illegal city poker clubs is dangerous, but are powerless to stop him, team and baseball sources said. Major League Baseball sources said Rodriguez wasn't ordered to stay out of the clubs - but added baseball Commissioner Bud Selig was "keeping an eye" on A-Rod and would step in "if necessary."
-- New York Daily News

The Yankees' young stars like Robinson Cano and Chien-Ming Wang figure to get plenty of attention as potential trade chips this winter, but the general consensus among Yankee brass, according to sources, is that any deal that involves those two probably isn't worth it.
-- New York Daily News

It's not likely the Yankees are going to chase Red Sox free agent Johnny Damon, and there are voices who are against trading Robinson Cano for the Twins' Torii Hunter. A possibility is prying Vernon Wells away from Toronto, but it would be very difficult for the Blue Jays to make a deal that would upgrade their AL East rival in their weakest position. Florida's Juan Pierre's name will surface, too.
-- New York Post

Angel General Manager Bill Stoneman's expected exploration of a bid for Boston slugger Manny Ramirez could get complicated. According to baseball sources, trade talks probably will expand to include the Arizona Diamondbacks, who could send third baseman Troy Glaus to the Red Sox in a three-way deal. In exchange for Ramirez, the Angels could send first baseman Darin Erstad and a prospect or two to Boston and additional players and prospects to Arizona.
-- Los Angeles Times

Dodger owner Frank McCourt's senior advisor, Tommy Lasorda, has said Orel Hershiser is too inexperienced to become GM, but Lasorda is pushing to bring the former Dodger pitcher into the organization. The scenario was for Hershiser, who has been the Texas Ranger pitching coach since 2002, to learn from [Pat] Gillick and take over the position in a few years. Now a fallback plan could be to hire Hershiser as GM and have him learn from Roy Smith, the Dodger vice president of player development.
-- Los Angeles Times

Next year's Mets closer almost certainly will not be Roberto Hernandez or Aaron Heilman, although each performed admirably after Manager Willie Randolph became frustrated with Braden Looper in mid-September. The Mets have made no secret that they will pursue elite free-agent closers, particularly Philadelphia's Billy Wagner. Plan B comes in the form of Orioles closer B.J. Ryan, who has said he would love to play in New York, although that may mean the Bronx and not Queens. The Mets have made overtures to the Yankees' Tom Gordon and the Padres' Trevor Hoffman, and either would be an interesting fit.
-- New York Times

A baseball executive with a relationship with Theo Epstein said last night that he believes there's only a ''10-20 percent chance" Epstein is completely out of baseball for the coming year. The executive said there's a ''60-70 percent chance" Epstein works in baseball this year in a non-GM capacity. Epstein doesn't figure to fit in Los Angeles or Tampa Bay. The great unknown is the Washington Nationals. Another possible landing spot for Epstein as GM could be San Diego, if Padres GM Kevin Towers, Epstein's former mentor, were to be wooed to Boston and reunited with Larry Lucchino, whom Towers worked under in San Diego.
-- Boston Globe

[Baseball Guru]

After reminiscing about Theo Epstein's brief and celebrated 35-month tenure as the 11th general manager in the Red Sox' 105-year existence, members of his baseball operations department came to a pressing question: How could they get Epstein out of Fenway Park without facing camera crews? Conveniently, Monday night happened to be Halloween night, and someone in the office happened to have a gorilla costume handy. Epstein, according to a baseball operations employee, slipped into the suit, walked out of Gate D, and strolled by the cameras, a smile on his concealed face.
-- Boston Globe

After picking up a $4.75-million option on pitcher John Thomson's contract Tuesday, the Braves can get down to the most pressing issue: Rafael Furcal. The Chicago Cubs and New York Mets already told his agent they will be big players in the Furcal sweepstakes if the free-agent shortstop doesn't re-sign with the Braves during an exclusive 15-day negotiating period before Nov. 11. All things being equal, Kinzer said Furcal would still prefer to stay with Atlanta.
-- Atlanta Journal-Constitution

The Padres and free-agent relief pitcher Trevor Hoffman are at least one season and $15 million apart in initial talks regarding a new contract. So what Hoffman did was clear out his locker in the Padres clubhouse. "I am an emotional guy," said Hoffman. "I felt betrayed."
-- San Diego Union-Tribune

The Mariners say they hope to bring back Eddie Guardado in 2006, but the club is exploring other options should the closer leave in free agency. Sources said Tuesday the Mariners have contacted the agents representing Trevor Hoffman.
-- Seattle Post-Intelligencer

Pat Gillick will be named the Phillies' general manager today, multiple baseball sources said yesterday. A news conference is scheduled for today.
-- Philadelphia Inquirer

After cutting the field of managerial candidates to three, the Devil Rays on Tuesday night moved to the verge of a bigger acquisition, closing in on a deal to land former Astros general manager Gerry Hunsicker to play a key role in their front office. A multiyear deal with Hunsicker could be completed today and announced as soon as Thursday.
-- St. Petersburg Times

Assuming final details are worked out, one of Gerry Hunsicker's first tasks will be to help the Devil Rays choose a manager. Tuesday they named incumbent bench coach John McLaren and Angels bench coach Joe Maddon as finalists and also said Bobby Valentine, whom they have yet to formally interview because he is still managing in Japan, remained in contention.
-- St. Petersburg Times

For starters, the Rockies like Matt Morris, contacting his agent Tuesday. For relievers, the Rockies lost out on a top target, Jay Witasick, who elected to re-sign in Oakland. The Rockies reluctantly included Witasick to facilitate the Joe Kennedy trade to Oakland that landed utility player Omar Quintanilla. The market would have to break kindly for the Rockies to have a shot at Morris. The Cardinals' right-hander made nearly $7 million last season, and the going rate for
-- Denver Post

Scott Hatteberg, who hit one of the most memorable home runs in A's history, might have played his last game for Oakland. The A's declined to exercise Hatteberg's $2.7 million option, instead buying him out for $250,000. He has discussed the possibility of returning to the A's in 2006, but first he'll test the free-agent market.
-- San Francisco Chronicle

Guy Hansen, fired as Royals pitching coach at the end of the season, has decided to stay in the organization for the final year of his two-year contract next season.
-- Kansas City Star

[Baseball Guru]

The Sox are expected to exercise a $3.5 million buyout on injured designated hitter Frank Thomas on Friday, which would make him a free agent and open a seventh spot on the team's 40-man roster. And the agent for Paul Konerko confirmed the Angels expressed interest in the first baseman this week. Agent Craig Landis added that Konerko's priorities include money, length of contract and a no-trade clause. Also, he wants to sign with a contending team.
-- Chicago Tribune

The popular belief heading into the GM meetings next week in Palm Springs is that the Yankees will have a better chance of laying the groundwork to find bullpen help than a center fielder. That's because B.J. Ryan, Kyle Farnsworth, Julian Tavarez and Ugueth Urbina are free agents and will only require money to obtain. The only name among free agent center fielders, is Johnny Damon. Torii Hunter, Vernon Wells, Milton Bradley and Mike Cameron all are attractive to the Yankees, but it would require a trade to land one of them. Bradley, despite a background of injuries and temper-tantrums, might be the easiest top player to acquire as the Yankees seek a new center fielder.
-- New York Post

The Yankees may not pursue a center fielder this winter and instead give Bubba Crosby a chance to play the position in 2006. According to a person present at this week's organizational meetings, some at the sessions were in favor of trying Crosby rather than overpaying for a center fielder. Bernie Williams is a free agent, and if he returns, it will be in a reserve role.
-- Newark Star-Ledger

The Mets are mulling a pursuit of Julio Franco, which would pair the veteran, righty-hitting first baseman with rookie Mike Jacobs in 2006.
-- New York Daily News

Mets general manager Omar Minaya's No. 1 and 1A goals are to add a power pitcher for the bullpen and a power hitter for the lineup, and if he can acquire the two men who appear to head his lists -- Billy Wagner and Manny Ramirez -- the Mets become an instant favorite to play into October.
-- Newsday

Although Omar Minaya isn't publicly prioritizing catching targets, indications are he might employ a twist on his famed "outside-the-box" thinking by actually going outside the country. Catcher is the one position of strength in this joke of a free-agent class, with Bengie Molina and Ramon Hernandez lurking, but the Mets instead might look to the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks. Kenji Jojima, 29, built a rep as a great defender and averaged almost exactly .300, 30 and 100 (.299, 30 and 100, to be precise) over seven seasons. The Mets scouted Jojima heavily this year.
-- Newsday

[Baseball Guru]

Kerry Wood, who underwent surgery on his right shoulder in September, said he is working out four days a week with cardiovascular exercises to stay in shape. He also is working with a physical therapist for the shoulder. Asked if he could foresee full-time work as a reliever if the shoulder injury limits his number of innings, Wood said, "Down the road it is a possibility . . . later in my career. I am pretty sure the Cubs are not going to pay me that kind of money ($10 million in 2006) to set up [Ryan] Dempster."
-- Chicago Tribune

Milwaukee Brewers hall of famer Robin Yount is returning to the ballclub as the bench coach on manager Ned Yost's staff. Yost has been trying to get Yount on his staff almost since taking over as manager three years ago.
-- Milwaukee Journal Sentinel


Kevin Towers, the San Diego general manager with the experience, persona, and resume to step into the vacuum left by Theo Epstein's departure, figured to rank high, if not at the top of a list of potential Red Sox general manager candidates. However, Towers, in an e-mail exchange last night, said he has ''very little interest in uprooting my family at this time." Red Sox principal owner John W. Henry, in an e-mail last night, said the club has not requested permission to interview the Padres GM.
-- Boston Globe

Dodgers owner Frank McCourt spoke by telephone Thursday with John Hart, a candidate to become general manager of the team, and they have scheduled a formal interview for the coming days. Hart, who resigned as the Rangers' general manager in early October to become a consultant to owner Tom Hicks. At the time, Hicks said that he had not asked Hart to step down and, indeed, the team suggested Hart had retired. The Rangers had just concluded their third losing season in four years, all in Hart's tenure. Less than a month later, Hart said he would be interested in becoming the Dodger general manager, and now will meet with McCourt to discuss it.
-- Los Angeles Times

The Orioles' best excuse for avoiding the Paul Konerko auction is the need to acquire an everyday catcher and move Javy Lopez either to first base or into a full-time designated hitter role. If the Orioles make a successful run at either Ramon Hernandez or Bengie Molina, it all makes perfect sense. If they end up with Lopez still behind the plate in 2006 and no new impact hitter in the lineup, they'll be a third-place team - at best - no matter what they do to upgrade the pitching staff.
-- Baltimore Sun

Mike Timlin, speaking yesterday by conference call, indicated he never considered leaving the Sox. Since the offseason began, the 39-year-old cut ties to his agent and worked to quickly negotiate a one-year extension that was announced Wednesday.
-- Boston Globe

The Rockies are interested in outfielders Marquis Grissom and Jeff Conine, pitcher Elmer Dessens remains perched atop their wish list. The Rockies have been the most aggressive of the four teams pursuing the right-hander who has a sincere desire to play in Colorado. Dessens tops a group of relievers the Rockies have targeted in preliminary discussions, including San Diego's Chris Hammond, Texas' Doug Brocail and Pittsburgh's Brian Meadows.
-- Denver Post

As Andrew Friedman and Gerry Hunsicker get to know each other and learn to work together, there are going to be times when the Devil Rays new, top two baseball executives have passionate debates, loud arguments and heated fist-on-the-desk disagreements. And principal owner Stuart Sternberg couldn't be happier. The Rays revealed their restructured front office hierarchy Thursday, without the traditional title of general manager, which Sternberg discarded as outdated.
-- St. Petersburg Times

A Marlins team official said that the Dodgers have not asked for permission to speak with general manager Larry Beinfest about the vacant GM job in Los Angeles.
-- Miami Herald

The Washington Nationals last night discarded one of their most celebrated additions from last offseason, third baseman Vinny Castilla, and all but certainly thrust rookie Ryan Zimmerman into the Opening Day lineup for 2006 when they traded Castilla to the San Diego Padres for right-hander Brian Lawrence.
-- Washington Post

[Baseball Guru]

The Mets and Red Sox had serious discussions about Manny Ramirez before the July 31 trade deadline. It's possible that talks regarding Ramirez could be initiated again before the GM meetings end on Friday.
-- New York Post

The centerpiece of a deal for Boston's Manny Ramirez, coming from the Mets' side, would be center fielder Mike Cameron and two of the following three prospects: outfielder Lastings Milledge and right-handers Aaron Heilman and Yusmeiro Petit.
-- Boston Herald

No one is saying that Mike Cameron has demanded a trade, but there is a buzz at the GM meetings in California that the Mets' outfielder again has communicated to management a desire to play his natural position of center field. The Mets seem willing to sacrifice some fielding ability -- Cameron is a Gold Glove outfielder -- for a heftier bat and were expected to be gauging the market for Cameron. The Yankees, Red Sox and Angels could be interested.
-- New York Daily News

The reality remains that the Phillies likely will spend the next 3 days trying to determine what teams might have an interest in Jim Thome, how much of the remaining $46 million he has coming over the next 3 years they would be willing to pick up and what sort of players they might give up in return. The Dodgers, Orioles and Twins have been rumored to have some interest.
-- Philadelphia Daily News

Talk of Ivan Rodriguez's departure from Detroit looks to be overblown. New manager Jim Leyland seemed fine with him.
-- Lakeland Ledger

The Padres appear to be interested in catcher Brad Ausmus, which will create competition for the Astros. Ausmus lives in San Diego and is intrigued by the idea of playing at home.
-- mlb.com

The Giants will definitely try to unload Edgardo Alfonzo. Giants fans were disappointed in Alfonzo's work but he was decent -- and still young enough that other clubs could still seek his services.
-- mlb.com

While baseball's general managers' meetings buzzed with speculation that Theo Epstein would be returning to the Red Sox -- a rumor repeated by some team personnel but unsubstantiated by anyone in a position of authority on Yawkey Way -- the first two candidates to replace Epstein were identified by the club. One is Jim Beattie, former Montreal Expos GM who was interviewed by the Sox in 2002 and subsequently was part of a disastrous two-headed experiment in Baltimore. The other is Jim Bowden, former Cincinnati Reds GM who put some sizzle into baseball's return to Washington as GM of the Nationals.
-- Boston Globe

[Baseball Guru]

From all accounts, Nomar Garciaparra would love to return to the Cubs for a third season. But the veteran shortstop whom the Cubs made it a priority to keep is Neifi Perez, who has agreed to terms on a two-year deal that is expected to be announced on Tuesday. Agent Paul Kinzer, who also represents free-agent shortstop Rafael Furcal, worked out the deal with the Cubs. Furcal appears to be the Cubs' primary target, but the Atlanta Braves hold exclusive negotiating rights through Thursday.
-- Chicago Tribune

Without specifying his plans, Bill Bavasi, Seattle's general manager, said Monday there is a "good chance" the trade market could mature early this autumn, given the thin free agent class. Bavasi may be able to acquire Carlos Delgado or Jim Thome without surrendering choice prospects, if he assumes most of the salary.
-- Seattle Post-Intelligencer

Considering Brian Cashman and Hideki Matsui's agent won't meet face to face until tomorrow night, it certainly appears neither side believes it will take much time to get Matsui signed to a long-term extension before Nov. 15.
-- New York Post

GM Omar Minaya admitted that the Mets have scouted Japanese free-agent-to-be catcher Kenji Jojima and said they are still trying to figure out his English-speaking ability.
-- New York Post

Braves GM John Schuerholz said he didn't have a meeting planned yet with agent Paul Kinzer, the representative for free-agent shortstop Rafael Furcal. Kinzer is talking to teams interested in Furcal and will probably speak with Schuerholz within the next two days. The Braves' exclusive negotiating window with Furcal expires late Thursday, and the Cubs, Mets and other interested teams can start making contract offers to him Friday.
-- Atlanta Journal-Constitution

The confusion over whether adviser John Hart is a candidate for the Los Angeles Dodgers' general manager job continues. The Los Angeles Times reported Monday that Dodgers officials said the team planned to interview Hart after he spoke by telephone with owner Frank McCourt on Sunday. Rangers officials, including GM Jon Daniels, said Hart has told them he has no interest in the job.
-- Dallas Morning News

Jon Daniels also said Dodgers officials have told him they will make a decision on the potential hire of pitching coach Orel Hershiser by Thursday, the end of the Major League Baseball general managers' meetings. The Rangers believe Hershiser will take some kind of position with Los Angeles.
-- Dallas Morning News

Jon Daniels did not rule out the possibility of making a deal before the end of the meetings. The Rangers are trying to find a way to improve their pitching staff via trade rather than the more expensive route of free agency. Other clubs have expressed interest in outfielders Kevin Mench and Laynce Nix and first baseman Adrian Gonzalez.
-- Dallas Morning News

The Rockies have $9 million to spend for upgrades, but as they seek outside help they will officially begin preliminary talks on a multiyear deal for closer Brian Fuentes.
-- Denver Post

A year ago at the GM meetings, 30 clubs were deadlocked on whether instant replay should be further explored. Last month, though, a few controversial (and incorrect) calls during the playoffs shed an unflattering light on umpires. Although instant replay is not specifically on today's agenda, the subject could be discussed when GMs meet to discuss rules and umpiring.
-- New York Post

Kevin McClatchy yesterday again denied the Pirates are for sale and also squelched a rumor that the team had been sold over the weekend.
-- Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

[Baseball Guru]

The Mets are talking to the Rangers about Alfonso Soriano's availability, according to a major league executive who spoke on condition of anonymity. The talks are in the initial stages. The Mets have a surplus of starting pitching, and Mike Cameron would provide the answer to the Rangers' inconsistency in center field and help to offset the loss of Soriano's bat. The Mets could throw in a second-base prospect, Anderson Hernandez or Jeff Keppinger, although that may not be necessary because the Rangers have groomed Ian Kinsler to replace Soriano.
-- New York Times

Mets general manager Omar Minaya is laying the foundation for a potential trade with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays for closer Danys Baez and first baseman Aubrey Huff. The most-likely scenario in which the Mets and Devil Rays would consummate such a deal -- Tampa wants pitching in return -- would be if the Mets fail in their bid to land Wagner. The Red Sox need relief pitching and a first baseman, and Baez or Huff could be used as part of a package in a trade for Manny Ramirez.
-- New York Daily News

The Mets would like to use Kris Benson and Steve Trachsel to both create room in their rotation -- which could then be filled by outside free agents -- and to plug their more obvious holes like first base and second base. Should they find suitable trade partners for Trachsel and Benson, the Mets could fill the holes by pursuing free agents like A.J. Burnett, Esteban Loaiza and Kevin Millwood.
-- Newsday


Milwaukee, with young Prince Fielder near ready, could deal Lyle Overbay, while the financially strapped Florida Marlins have yet to declare Carlos Delgado untouchable.
-- Newsday

Disappointed by persistent rumors that he could be traded, Marlins first baseman Carlos Delgado fired back at the team Tuesday, restating his desire to remain in South Florida and calling on the front office to clarify his status.
-- Miami Herald

Tradewise, the Indians and Texas have talked. The Rangers need a reliever and outfielder. The Indians may have some interest in first-base prospect Adrian Gonzalez. He's stuck behind Mark Teixeira.
-- Cleveland Plain Dealer

The Padres and Rangers have had several trade talks. San Diego is interested in center fielder Laynce Nix, and the Rangers are eyeing starting pitcher Adam Eaton.
-- San Diego Union-Tribune

[Baseball Guru]

The Padres still want to sign right fielder Brian Giles but are exploring Jacque Jones as part of Plan B or C
-- San Diego Union-Tribune

White Sox general manager Ken Williams knows that beginning Friday, the Los Angeles Angels, Boston Red Sox, New York Mets and perhaps another five to 10 teams will be wooing Paul Konerko. He is prepared for an extended period of uncertainty as the free-agent process plays out but remains confident Konerko will decide to remain with the White Sox.
-- Chicago Tribune


With one more day remaining of exclusive negotiating rights with Paul Konerko, the White Sox are prepared to make their free-agent cleanup hitter an offer -- a four-year deal worth as much as $52 million, a source indicated -- but it's not expected to prevent Konerko from testing the open market.
-- Chicago Sun-Times

The Dodgers and Angels have joined the chase of free-agent first baseman Paul Konerko, both seeking a middle-of-the-order bat, and both having spoken to Konerko's agent, Craig Landis, during these meetings.
-- Los Angeles Times

Tino Martinez won't be back with the Yankees next season and the Bombers are putting out feelers to see if they might be able to move Jorge Posada, too. The Yankees declined the 2006 option on Martinez. The Yankees have been trying to gauge interest for Posada for nearly a year and a half, but have found few takers because of his bulky contract.
-- New York Daily News

If the Yankees were able to move Jorge Posada, they could get into the bidding for Angels free agent Bengie Molina, a player that some of their evaluators give high marks.
-- New York Daily News

Theo Epstein is gone, and Manny Ramirez could be next. "He has made it clear that he would like us to consider a trade," Larry Lucchino, the Red Sox' president and chief executive, said yesterday. It was believed to be the first time a Red Sox executive acknowledged that Ramirez had asked to be traded.
-- New York Times

A person close to the Red Sox said that if pitcher David Wells insists they trade him to the West Coast, Boston might send him to the Padres this winter for third baseman Sean Burroughs and center fielder Dave Roberts,
-- San Diego Union-Tribune

Reports continue to steadily trickle in at these general managers meetings that the Red Sox have not yet given up hope (however unlikely) that they can convince Theo Epstein to change his mind.
-- Boston Globe

Red Sox CEO Larry Lucchino, who has been out of sight since contract talks with Theo Epstein disintegrated 10 days ago, arrives at the GM meetings today, along with team chairman Tom Werner, to conduct interviews for Epstein's successor as general manager. Washington Nationals GM Jim Bowden is the only announced candidate scheduled to meet with Lucchino and Werner here, though the Red Sox have also asked permission to interview Indians assistant GM Chris Antonetti.
-- Boston Globe

In a surprise, the Red Sox announced last night that Bill Lajoie, who had resigned within minutes of Theo Epstein, citing loyalty to Epstein as his reason for leaving, has rejoined the club with a slightly different title. Lajoie, previously listed as a special assistant to the general manager/scouting, has been given the new title of special adviser/baseball operations.
-- Boston Globe

A team of Phillies officials, led by general manager Pat Gillick and manager Charlie Manuel, will travel to Virginia a week from today to convince closer Billy Wagner to continue throwing his 99-m.p.h. heater for the Phils.
-- Philadelphia Inquirer

The Chicago Cubs can't make an offer to Braves free agent Rafael Furcal until Friday, but one Cubbie already made a sales pitch. While the Braves continued discussions but made no contract offer to Furcal, Cubs infielder Neifi Perez called his friend Monday and told him he should join the Cubs -- even though it would diminish Perez's playing time.
-- Atlanta Journal-Constitution

The Cardinals have sights set on Brian Giles and are trolling for both bullpen booster shots and trades, though reliever Ray King said Tuesday he would like to remain a Cardinal, easing off his comments that expressed a wish to be traded.
-- St. Louis Post-Dispatch

Outfielder Rocco Baldelli likes what the Devil Rays' new ownership and management has done. He showed how much by agreeing to six-year contract that could be worth about $33-million and keep him with the Rays through 2011.
-- St. Petersburg Times

[GaryMrMets]

In the following article, I found a piece about the Mets signing former Marlins reliever Matt Perisho:

http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/baseball/yankees/story/364104p-310064c.html

http://www.nydailynews.com/images/editors/notebook.gif
RYAN EYES: Cashman said he had not yet been in touch with B.J. Ryan's agent, but the Bombers are expected to make a strong push for the former Orioles closer once they're allowed to start talking dollars with free agents tomorrow. In Mets bullpen news, former Marlins reliever Matt Perisho was signed to a split minor league/major league contract that includes a spring training invitation, according to a person with knowledge of the situation.

Originally published on November 10, 2005

[Baseball Guru]

In Mets bullpen news, former Marlins reliever Matt Perisho was signed to a split minor league/major league contract that includes a spring training invitation, according to a person with knowledge of the situation.



Whoopie:hmm:

I look so forward to a guy who, in 8 years in the majors, has an era over 6, :barf: coming to my team....

[Baseball Guru]

Last winter, the Mets went after the best free-agent starter on the market and landed Pedro Martinez. This winter, they could be looking at making it a back-to-back with A.J. Burnett. The Mets met with Burnett's agent, Darek Braunecker, yesterday at the GM meetings, and Braunecker said he believed "there's significant interest on their part.''
-- New York Post

Bill Bavasi, the Mariners general manager, met Wednesday with A.J. Burnett's agent. From there, discussions could go anywhere.
-- Seattle Post-Intelligencer

Rangers GM Jon Daniels had a lengthy meeting with the agent for top free agent A.J. Burnett, on Tuesday evening. The sides discussed having Burnett visit Texas but have not yet scheduled anything.
-- Dallas Morning News

Two major league sources said the Rangers and San Diego Padres have had multiple discussions about 29-year-old right-hander Adam Eaton. The Padres, who need catching, are believed to be focusing their interests on a package centered around catcher Gerald Laird. For a trade to get done, the Rangers would probably have to include a second player as well. First baseman Adrian Gonzalez, could also be of interest to the Padres, as could outfielder Laynce Nix.
-- Dallas Morning News

The Phillies' last standing offer to Billy Wagner, the 34-year-old with the 100 mph fastball, was for two years with a vesting third based on appearances. According to a baseball official it's for well below the $10 million per season he is almost certain to be offered by other clubs, including the Mets.
-- New York Daily News

Although the Mets have also recently spoken with the Florida Marlins, those discussions have not centered on first baseman Carlos Delgado, who could be available as the Marlins try to shed payroll. Delgado, who signed a four-year, $52 million deal in January, wants to remain with the Marlins, but he could be one of the first casualties.
-- New York Times

Unconvinced about Mike Jacobs' ability over the long haul, the Mets are looking elsewhere to fill their need at first base. And it's possible the team could revisit the one marquee player that eluded its grasp last winter -- Carlos Delgado.
-- Newark Star-Ledger

[Baseball Guru]

Mets GM Omar Minaya covets 2B Jeff Kent, but the Dodgers were unwilling to deal him when Paul DePodesta was in charge.
-- MLB.com

If neither Manny Ramirez nor Paul Konerko lands in Anaheim, the Angels could renew their pursuit of Kansas City first baseman Mike Sweeney, look into free agent Nomar Garciaparra or inquire about Arizona third baseman and former Angel Troy Glaus.
-- Los Angeles Times


What does Jarrod Washburn want to do? Reports continue to trickle in that he has interest in pitching for the Brewers.
-- MLB.com

A trade of Manny RamÃ*rez took another step toward becoming a reality yesterday when RamÃ*rez's agent, Greg Genske, met here yesterday with Red Sox CEO Larry Lucchino and team chairman Tom Werner, and agreed to explore trade options. Werner insisted that keeping RamÃ*rez remains an option.
-- Boston Globe

As the White Sox make their final offer to Paul Konerko while holding exclusive negotiating rights with the free-agent first baseman, they already have made plans for life without their most consistent offensive performer. Rumors circulating at the general managers' meetings have the Sox in the trade market for the Phillies' Jim Thome or the Florida Marlins' Carlos Delgado. But for either of those plans to come to fruition, the current team would have to pick up a hefty chunk of the remaining salary.
-- Chicago Sun-Times

The Giants opened talks on a multiyear extension with outfielder Randy Winn on Wednesday, and while the discussion with agent Craig Landis was constructive, both sides agreed to postpone the matter until later this month.
-- Oakland Tribune

One day before the House Government Reform Committee is expected to announce it does not have enough evidence to charge him with perjury, former Baltimore Orioles first baseman Rafael Palmeiro began a campaign that he hopes will clear his name and improve the possibility of him playing in 2006.
-- Washington Post

Leaving no doubt that their future plans do not include Theo Epstein's return, Red Sox chairman Tom Werner and CEO Larry Lucchino yesterday interviewed three candidates for the general manager's job.
-- Boston Globe

According to a person familiar with the situation, Hideki Matsui's agent, Arn Tellem, gave Matsui a list of comparable players that featured J.D. Drew (who signed a five-year, $55-million contract with the Dodgers last winter) and Matsui's Yankees teammate Gary Sheffield (who will complete a three-year, $39-million contract in 2006).
-- Newsday

Under a clause negotiated by Arn Tellem, the Yankees have to sign Hideki Matsui by Tuesday or release him. The Yankees shouldn't need that much time to negotiate a contract for Matsui, a valuable 31-year-old outfielder. It should be a relatively simple matter. Because the deadline exists, though, the Yankees may have to pay Matsui more than they would like, and that reality may interfere with their desire to lower their $203 million payroll for next season.
-- New York Times

Officials from the Toronto Blue Jays and Phillies met. The Jays are looking for a corner outfielder, and they like Bobby Abreu. Anything there? "No match," a person with knowledge of the talks said. Abreu, who is signed through 2007 with a club option for 2008, is owed at least $31 million, and that's too rich for the Jays, who have money to spend but are pursuing premium free agents A.J. Burnett and B.J. Ryan.
-- Philadelphia Inquirer

Marlins general manager Larry Beinfest spoke Wednesday with Alan Hendricks, the representative for free agent Todd Jones, and said he wasn't giving up on efforts to bring the closer back. The bullpen is an area the Marlins will be concentrating on this winter, and if Jones -- who has expressed a desire to sign with the Atlanta Braves -- does not come back, Beinfest indicated he likely will pursue a deal with Guillermo Mota.
-- Miami Herald

When Brian Cashman spoke with Tino Martinez on Tuesday, the issue of him becoming a coach came up briefly. The Yankees declined the $3 million contract on Martinez, who filed for free agency and wants to mull his playing future.
-- New York Post

Lou Piniella no longer has to worry about saying the wrong things about replacing Joe Torre as Yankee manager. It's not happening. But Piniella is open to managing again. First, he wants to take some time off to do some TV work - his agent, Alan Nero, will reach out to Fox and ESPN. After that, who knows?
-- New York Post

There is still no resolution on GM John Hart's potential involvement with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Rangers officials have maintained for a week that Hart is not interested in the Dodgers' GM job, but Dodgers officials have said he is. Hart has not responded to multiple requests for clarification.
-- Dallas Morning News

The Mariners have exclusive negotiating rights with free-agent pitcher Jamie Moyer until 9 p.m. local time tonight. Club president Chuck Armstrong said the team wants to re-sign him, and remains hopeful that it will do so, but indicated a deal is unlikely today.
-- Seattle Post-Intelligencer

[rockin500]

its also been reported the cubs are going to toss out a 36 million dollar 4 year deal to Furcal and try to outspend Atlanta. Perez isnt the only heavy recruiting either. Maddux did it last week, and Aramis Ramirez was really hitting on him too. as they are both good friends with him, too.

get er done Jim!

[rockin500]

cubs are aggressively negotiating with florida about a juan pierre trade.

[Baseball Guru]

Ichiro Suzuki is very unhappy about the losing in Seattle, according to a source, though the team is unaware of his displeasure. Ichiro, who has won the Rookie of the Year, MVP and set the modern-day hits record in 2004, sees his window of opportunity closing on winning a World Series title. Ichiro could play center field, however, for a team like the Yankees, who logically would pursue him if he were available.
-- New York Post

Mets general Manager Omar Minaya and aide Tony Bernazard were planning on leaving the GM meetings today and going to Yuma, Ariz., to meet face-to-face with free agent catcher Bengie Molina, according to sources at the meetings.
-- New York Daily News

The Mets and Yankees have both expressed interest in free-agent reliever Kyle Farnsworth, according to agent Barry Meister.
-- New York Post

The Yankees recently approached White Sox GM Kenny Williams about trying to work out a trade for center fielder Aaron Rowand, according to sources, but were told by Williams there was no match between the teams. That news shrank an already small pool of potential solutions for the Bombers' gaping hole in center.
-- New York Daily News

When agent Arn Tellem meets with his client, Hideki Matsui, in New York on Sunday, he'll have a significant offer in his hands from the Yankees. Matsui's offer could be delivered by tonight. The Yankees are willing to give Matsui a four-year deal for $11-12 million per year, but it's unclear whether the Japanese slugger deems that enough.
-- New York Post

Brian Cashman also plans to speak with Brian Giles' agent, Joe Bick, sometime today, according to Bick. That would be at least their third conversation in recent days. Although most baseball observers think it's an either/or situation between Matsui and Giles, the former San Diego right fielder, Bick disagrees.
-- New York Post

[Baseball Guru]

Orioles officials cannot talk publicly about a player who is under contract to another club, but there is no doubt that Carlos Delgado is a player who would interest them if he is available under the right circumstances. The Marlins likely would be looking for Hayden Penn, Jorge Julio and at least one other top Orioles prospect to justify absorbing a big chunk of Delgado's contract.
-- Baltimore Sun

Braves general manager John Schuerholz returned from the GM meetings Thursday uncertain of the status of free-agent shortstop Rafael Furcal. But that wasn't unexpected. Paul Kinzer and the Braves agreed to hold off further discussions until other suitors, including the Chicago Cubs and New York Mets, have talked dollars with Kinzer. It'll be clearer then whether Atlanta has a shot at keeping Furcal.
-- Atlanta Journal-Constitution


Ken Williams was asked whether Manny Ramirez would be a good fit for the White Sox. ''He's not that kind of guy,'' the general manager of the World Series champions said Thursday. ''We have a certain kind of chemistry.'' Point made. Boston will not be dealing Ramirez to Chicago.
-- Chicago Sun-Times

The Rangers would love to get lefty Oliver Perez from Pittsburgh, but conversations between the clubs went nowhere. They've discussed Adam Eaton for Gerald Laird and possibly Adrian Gonzalez; the Rangers value their players more than Eaton. They've discussed Kevin Mench with Kansas City. The Royals would be willing to part with Jeremy Affeldt; the Rangers prefer Zack Greinke. Kansas City is not interested in dealing Greinke.
-- Dallas Morning News

As the Padres mulled trade scenarios that center on pitcher Adam Eaton and several young Rangers position players yesterday, GM Kevin Towers was unable to convince right fielder Brian Giles to forgo free agency.
-- San Diego Union-Tribune

The Mariners are Kenji Jojima's first choice. He may not be theirs. Jojima, who could become the major leagues' first Japanese catcher, wants to play in Seattle next season, a club source said Thursday. The Mariners, however, are reluctant to sign him at the numbers -- three years, $16-$18 million -- floated by his representatives in recent days. General manager Bill Bavasi has said he wants to find catching help, but has left that below pitching and left-handed power among his offseason priorities.
-- Seattle Post-Intelligencer

Javier Vazquez, the Diamondbacks' No. 1 starter, indicated through his representatives to club officials that he plans to file the necessary paperwork and wants to play for a team east of the Mississippi River to be closer to family in his native Puerto Rico.
-- Arizona Republic

A House committee report released yesterday undermines former Orioles star Rafael Palmeiro's contention that his positive steroids test was accidental and provides an alarming glimpse at life inside the team's clubhouse, which one lawmaker called "a mess." The report also punches holes in Palmeiro's defense at an arbitration hearing this summer -- a defense that an MLB attorney called "far-fetched."
-- Baltimore Sun

Unidentified players said Miguel Tejada had supplied them with the injectable vitamin in 2004 and had himself been injected 40 to 45 times that year and 30 to 35 times in 2005. A consultant for Major League Baseball said liquid B-12 is available only by prescription in the United States (as with most injectable substances). Tejada said he purchased the substance legally in the Dominican Republic, but he might have violated U.S. regulations by sharing it with teammates.
-- Baltimore Sun

Rafael Palmeiro may have escaped prosecution yesterday, but baseball's amphetamine problem and drug-testing policy remain in the cross-hairs of congressional investigators.
-- New York Daily News

A multiyear agreement to keep Bobby Valentine with the Chiba Lotte Marines is imminent. Valentine, pursued by the Dodgers and Devil Rays after managing Chiba Lotte to a sweep in the Nippon Series, will sign an extension with the Marines for at least three years and about $4 million per year.
-- Newsday

The Rockies are prepared to offer two-year deals in an attempt to land either Elmer Dessens or Brian Meadows, a philosophical shift after not giving relievers a multiyear contract since 2000. Top starter targets Shawn Estes and Byung-Hyun Kim, both of whom have drawn interest from the Dodgers, remain realistic targets for one-year deals.
-- Denver Post

The Nationals continue to be hurt by their lack of an owner while Commissioner Bud Selig and the District stare each other down over a new stadium.
-- Washington Post

[yagsy]

The Mets and Yankees have both expressed interest in free-agent reliever Kyle Farnsworth, according to agent Barry Meister.-- New York Post

I can't believe that the Mets would be even slightly interested in Farnsworth. I don't know about the Yankees but when an agent says his client has drawn interest from both NY clubs, that tells me the agent is trying desperately to get some sort of offers from anyone with hopes of someone overbidding thinking they have to outbid a NY team. :hmm:

The Rangers and Padres are talking seriously about Eaton for Nix/Laird/Gonzalez trade. I think the Pads would have to throw another player in there but the Padres definitely are interested in those three players. Eaton is definitely on the trading block but in getting rid of a #2 starter with electric stuff (but still isn't quite a pitcher), the Padres will have to find an answer via trades to fill that spot in the rotation.

David Wells came on the local SD sports radio and announced that his wife and kids have asked him to come back home. That means either retirement or pitching for the Padres. Trading SEan Burroughs to Boston could be great because it would give the lefty bat new scenery but the fan base is not something he would be used to playing in front of.

[Panzram]

If they want Wells, they might as well dig up Waite Hoyt.

[Baseball Guru]

David Wells came on the local SD sports radio and announced that his wife and kids have asked him to come back home. That means either retirement or pitching for the Padres. Trading SEan Burroughs to Boston could be great because it would give the lefty bat new scenery but the fan base is not something he would be used to playing in front of.

According to the Boston Globe, the Red Sox and Padres have had David Wells for Dave Roberts trade talks.

[Baseball Guru]

There were strong indications on Sunday night the Dodgers have offered their vacant general manager's position to former Boston GM Theo Epstein and that they had sweetened the deal by offering Epstein a small ownership stake similar to what Billy Beane has in Oakland.
-- Los Angeles Daily News

The Mets are prepared to outbid the Philadelphia Phillies -- and every other team, for that matter -- in their pursuit of free-agent closer Billy Wagner. Whether they land him or not will depend on whether Wagner, who makes his home in gentile Charlottesville, Va., would rather pitch in Philadelphia, where he has comfortably spent the last two seasons, or relocate to New York. It surely won't, the Mets believe, come down to money.
-- Newark Star-Ledger


An Internet report stating Rafael Furcal had set a $50 million price tag was refuted by his agent Saturday, leaving the Cubs in the hunt for the free-agent shortstop.
-- Chicago Tribune

Braves general manager John Schuerholz returned from the GM meetings Thursday uncertain of the status of free-agent shortstop Rafael Furcal. But that wasn't unexpected. Paul Kinzer and the Braves agreed to hold off further discussions until other suitors, including the Chicago Cubs and New York Mets, have talked dollars with Kinzer. It'll be clearer then whether Atlanta has a shot at keeping Furcal. The Braves won't get in a bidding war if the market goes as high as Kinzer thinks it will -- at least five years at $9 million or more annually.
-- Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Oakland and Baltimore are said to be interested in signing Frank Thomas if they can get some idea how much Thomas' ankle/foot problem is progressing.
-- Boston Globe

The A.J. Burnett sweepstakes is down to 10 deep-pocketed hopefuls. The news is good for the Blue Jays, who are among that list of 10 teams still in the running to land Burnett, the Florida Marlins product who has enticed interest from more teams than any free agent on the market this off-season. Burnett's representative, Darek Braunecker, yesterday confirmed he and his client had "scratched down" the list of potential suitors from about 22 following the general managers' meetings.
-- Toronto Sun

The Cubs have not exactly told Nomar Garciaparra to take a hike, but they have advised the veteran free agent to feel free to see if he can "find a better fit" elsewhere. General manager Jim Hendry said he had talked to Garciaparra's agent, Arn Tellem, at the GM meetings last week in California.
-- Chicago Tribune

Twins GM Terry Ryan insisted rumors of Torii Hunter being on the trading block are unfounded. "I'm looking to add offense, not subtract it," Ryan said. In that regard, look for him to sign Nomar Garciaparra to play shortstop.
-- New York Daily News

If the Indians want to keep Kevin Millwood, they're going to have to pay him. Scott Boras, Millwood's agent, m